The Michigan field hockey program welcomed four freshmen this fall. After nearly three weeks together for preseason in Virginia Beach, Va., and the season opener just days away, they are certainly settling into life as Wolverine student-athlete. Learn more about the Wolverine newcomers, how they got to Michigan and what they bring on and off the field.

VEERLE LUBBERS Freshman
Midfield
Arnhem, Netherlands

What attracted you to the University of Michigan?
"I really liked the place that field hockey and all the other sports hold in the community. I also like that the university is so big, but still is cozy."

How did you first get involved in field hockey?
"I started when I was about 5 or 6 years with a mix of field hockey and soccer. I had to choose between the two sports, because I played tennis in addition to these two, and I chose soccer. But my parents put me in field hockey anyways, because they thought that would fit me better. They were completely right. I love this sport more than all other sports."

How has it been getting to know your Wolverine teammates?
"The team is great. All the girls are very nice and also very helpful if I don't understand something! They also show interest in me and the other freshmen, which really helps me feel at home here."

What do you like about Michigan/Ann Arbor from what you've seen so far?
"I like that it is just like in the movies -- the streets, the houses, the people ... everything!"

Favorite food ... (Dutch) pancakes with appleFavorite singer/band ... I don't really have a favorite singer/band, but I love a lot of songs!Favorite TV show ... the Dutch TV show, DivorcedFavorite book ... I rarely readFavorite movie ... I don't have a favorite movie, but I really like comediesFavorite superhero ... Definitely SupermanFavorite song to sing at karaoke ... It's Raining Men!Favorite subject/class taken ... Physical Education or BiologyFavorite athlete ... Ellen Hoog (national field hockey team the Netherlands)Favorite place to visit ... It doesn't matter where, as long as it is sunny and there is a beach, pool and enough to doFavorite sport besides field hockey ... Tennis. I've played for 11 or 12 years

MORGAN MALONE Freshman
Midfield
Granby, Conn.

What attracted you to the University of Michigan?
"I have always wanted to go to a Big Ten school, and Michigan was by far the best. The campus, field hockey facilities, academics and coaching staff are all outstanding. It was the right fit for me, so all the other schools I was looking at became secondary on my list."

How did you first get involved in field hockey?
"My brother wrestles, and when I was eight I used to have to go to his practices, and I hated them. They were so long, so my mom saw a flyer for field hockey that was at the same time nearby, so I said 'Sign me up.' I have loved it ever since."

How has it been getting to know your Wolverine teammates?
"It has been amazing. As a freshman, I was really nervous about meeting new teammates, but they have treated me like family. I feel like I've known them for a long time."

What do you like about Michigan/Ann Arbor from what you've seen so far?
"I haven't spent much time on campus yet as we are in Virginia for preseason. But what I do know of it, I love. Once I get back, I can't wait to meet new people and to learn more about the campus."

What do you enjoy when you're not play field hockey?
"I love to spend time with my family, go out to eat and go shopping."

What attracted you to the University of Michigan?
"What attracts me to U-M is the incredible talent and team spirit throughout the whole university and the beautiful campus. Also the fantastic field hockey team and the level of talent within it."

How did you first get involved in field hockey?
"I first started playing in my primary school when I was eight years old. My teacher got me involved, and I joined my local club. At age 10, I was introduced to the goalkeeper role by my coach."

How has it been getting to know your Wolverine teammates?
"It has been an incredible experience. I feel I have been welcomed into a new family. Everyone is so friendly and caring. I feel like I have known everyone longer than I have."

What do you like about Michigan/Ann Arbor from what you've seen so far?
"I love the city of Ann Arbor, and the campus is beautiful and exciting. There are always people around and something interesting going on. There are so many places to go to entertain yourself, and you are always meeting new interesting people."

What do you enjoy when you're not play field hockey?
"I enjoy having downtime, reading a book or relaxing outside. I love walking my dog with my mum or boyfriend."

Favorite food ... Mum's homemade Roast Beef dinner and Yorkshire Puddings Favorite singer/band ... Bastille Favorite TV show ... NCIS/CSIFavorite book ... Unbroken by Laura HillenbrandFavorite movie ... I Now Pronounce you Chuck and LarryFavorite superhero ... Baby Jack Jack from the IncrediblesFavorite song to sing at karaoke... I don't sing for the benefit of othersFavorite subject/class taken ... Physical Education or BiologyFavorite athlete ... Maddie Hinch -- Great Britain GoalkeeperFavorite place to visit ... Anywhere in the Great Yorkshire Dales in England or CountrysideFavorite sport besides field hockey... Ice Hockey

KATIE TROMBETTA Freshman
Midfield
Holbrook, N.Y.

What attracted you to the University of Michigan?
"The school spirit, the facilities, the great reputation, the team and coaches and the overall Michigan experience."

How did you first get involved in field hockey?
"My mom coached the sport at a high school when I was young, and I would love to go and spend time with the girls and play around. Then in seventh grade, my mom asked me to played field hockey in school and soccer outside. I ended up loving it and stuck with it."

How has it been getting to know your Wolverine teammates?
"The team is awesome, so welcoming, and they make you feel part of the team right away. They are energetic, funny and always making the time go fast with laughter."

What do you like about Michigan/Ann Arbor from what you've seen so far?
"I love the facilities and the town. Everything is so school-spirited, and everything you possibly need is right there. I am very excited to see the new dorm I will be staying in this fall since it just got redone."

What do you enjoy when you're not play field hockey?
"I love to shop and hang out with my friends. I hate being home by myself doing nothing, so I am constantly running around keeping myself busy. I love the beach and going out to cool restaurants."

Favorite food ... French friesFavorite singer/band ... Katy PerryFavorite TV show ... Gossip GirlFavorite book ... The Best of MeFavorite movie ... She's the ManFavorite superhero ... SupermanFavorite song to sing at karaoke ... Party in the U.S.A.Favorite subject/class taken ... HistoryFavorite athlete ... Johnny ManzielFavorite place to visit ... The beachFavorite sport besides field hockey ... Football